2017 Hyundai Ioniq: Geneva Auto Show

What Is It?

The 2017 Hyundai Ioniq isn't one car, but actually three: It's an all-new Hyundai that will be offered in hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fully electric variants, making it the first vehicle on sale to offer all three powertrain choices.

On the outside, the Ioniq looks -- dare we say -- a little like a Prius, with a 5-door hatchback body style and an attractive, aerodynamic shape. Inside, you won't find many differences from a standard well-equipped Hyundai, as the Ioniq uses high-end materials and traditional Hyundai switches and features.

But what's under the hood is more important. The hybrid-powered Ioniq touts a 139-horsepower hybrid 4-cylinder, which tops the 121-hp engine in the Prius. The plug-in hybrid variant uses a plug-in gasoline and electric engine based on the hybrid's motor, though it can travel an impressive 30 miles on electric power alone. Finally, Hyundai says the fully electric model offers 118 hp, 218 lb-ft of torque and an impressive 155-mile driving range between charges.

How Much?

Although Hyundai hasn't announced pricing, we expect the Ioniq's MSRP to be close to its top rivals.

When Can You Get It?

Late 2016

Add It to Your Shopping List Because...

The 2017 Hyundai Ioniq seems to have it all: modern styling, an upscale interior with a lot of gadgets and all three potential powertrain choices depending on your preference. Do you want a hybrid? The Ioniq offers it. Same goes for a plug-in hybrid and a fully electric powertrain. Most importantly, offering all three powertrains in one model will go a long way in helping the Ioniq compete against well-known rivals that have enjoyed a multiyear head start to building their popularity.

Other Cars to Consider

2017 Chevrolet Volt -- The Volt offers a longer plug-in hybrid range than the Ioniq -- and it looks a little bigger inside, too. But if the Ioniq is a lot cheaper than the plug-in Chevy, drivers may instead flock to the Hyundai.

2016 Nissan Leaf -- The fully electric version of the Ioniq will undoubtedly compete against the Nissan Leaf. While the Ioniq looks larger and offers a longer range, the Leaf has one big advantage: It's on sale now.

2016 Toyota Prius -- The new Prius offers an improved driving experience and a dramatic new design. We won't know if it's better than the Ioniq until we get the chance to compare the two models head-to-head.

Used Tesla Model S -- Used Model S cars are getting cheaper, and they offer an oh-so-cool interior. There's no hybrid or plug-in version, but the Model S touts a long EV range and mind-blowing performance.

This image is a stock photo and is not an exact representation of any vehicle offered for sale. Advertised vehicles of this model may have styling, trim levels, colors and optional equipment that differ from the stock photo.